Word Originlate Middle English (as a legal term): from Anglo-Norman French, past participle (used as a noun) of Old Frenchdesmettre

‘dismiss’

, (in reflexive)

‘abdicate’

, based on Latindimittere (see dismiss).Extra examplesHe praised the union’s aims but predicted its early demise.The war brought about the industry’s sudden demise.the demise of the USSRthe events which contributed to his political demise